Gilbert D. Minitrez

Minitrez, Gilbert D. "Gilly"
Age 73, was taken by cancer and returned to our Lord and joined his wife Clara J. Minitrez in heaven on  Tuesday, September 9, 2014. Gilly was born in Magdalena, NM on September 28, 1940, to  Natividad and Luisa  (Rodriguez) Minitrez and was the youngest of four siblings.  When his own parents passed at a young age, Gilbert was raised by his sister, Aurelia Minitrez-Candelaria.  Later, he also found a home with the late Julian and Lita Ortega of Socorro. He spent his youth growing up both in Socorro and Magdalena, NM before settling in Socorro where he enjoyed a career with the New Mexico State Highway Dept., from which he retired.  His second calling was working for the Socorro Consolidated School System, notably at the San Antonio School.  That in particular was a highlight for him as he loved being around kids who made him feel young again because in his words, "They remind me of my own kids who are grown and have moved away." Before Parkinson's disease made his life difficult, Gilly, who always had to be working, had found yet more purpose at the newly opened Wal-Mart, where he took pride in "running circles around the youngsters" and being able to see everyone in town. Gilbert's legacy is that of a hard working husband, father and grandfather who placed more value in being a present, caring and active parent than anything else.
Whether it was family trips to Springtime or working three jobs to buy gifts, everything he did was for the benefit of his family.  He adored and doted on his two granddaughters who brought him so much joy and comfort in his last days.  Gilly's life is remembered as being one of love, lust for life and much, much laughter given his incredible sense of humor.  He was kind and selfless, giving to a fault.  Gilbert was preceded in death by his parents, all of his siblings, and his beloved wife Clara.  Gilbert is survived by his devoted children, Henry C. Minitrez of Washington, DC; Tracy A. Crawford and husband, John; and Hazel M. Barrett and husband, David; his amazing granddaughters, Lyndy Minitrez and Clarissa Crawford; his nieces, nephews and many other family members; Nick and Anna Mae Fleming who also "adopted" him, and his close friend, Leo Carrillo.  A viewing will be held on Friday, September  12, 2014 at 1:00 pm at the Daniels Family Funeral Services Chapel, 309 Garfield,  Socorro with a Celebration of Gilbert's Life to begin at 2:00 pm.  Pastor Cullen Woods officiating. A reception will be held at 4:00 pm at Sofia's Kitchen, 105 Bullock, Socorro.  To view information or leave a condolence, please visit www.danielsfuneral.com. Gilbert's care has been entrusted to  
Daniels Family Funeral Services
309 Garfield St
Socorro, NM 87801
575-835-1530